Brain stem tumor
Script error: No such module "Labelled list hatnote". Script error: No such module "Labelled list hatnote". A brain stem tumor is a tumor in the part of the brain that connects to the spinal cord (the brain stem).
Symptoms and signs
The symptoms of brain stem tumors vary greatly and can include ataxia, cranial nerve palsy, headaches, problems with speech and swallowing, hearing loss, weakness, hemiparesis, vision abnormalities, ptosis, and behavioral changes. Another possible symptom is vomiting. Headaches related to brainstem tumors may be worse shortly after waking up in the morning.[1]
Diagnosis
An MRI is better than a CT scan when a brainstem tumor is in the differential diagnosis.Script error: No such module "Unsubst".
Types of brain stem tumors
The most common form of brainstem tumor is the brainstem glioma.
Treatment
Treatment typically consists of radiotherapy and steroids for palliation of symptoms.Script error: No such module "Unsubst". Radiotherapy may result in minimally extended survival time.Script error: No such module "Unsubst".
Prognosis
Prognosis is very poor, with only 37% of treated patients surviving one year or more.Script error: No such module "Unsubst". Topotecan has been studied in the treatment of brainstem glioma,Script error: No such module "Unsubst". otherwise, chemotherapy is probably ineffective, though further study is needed.[2]
References
<templatestyles src="Reflist/styles.css" />
- ↑ http://neurosurgery.mgh.harvard.edu/abta/primer.htmScript error: No such module "Unsubst".
- ↑ Brainstem Gliomas~treatment at eMedicine
Script error: No such module "Check for unknown parameters".
External links
- Brain stem tumor entry in the public domain NCI Dictionary of Cancer Terms
Script error: No such module "template wrapper".